3 Things Kings fans should be watching during training camp
By Elaine Blum
After last season’s success, the Kings’ agenda is to prove that it was no fluke. For Kings fans last season was already exciting—the team snapped its seemingly endless playoff drought, played a dynamic offense, and sent two players to the All-Star Game in Salt Lake City—but now that the first thrill of having meaningful basketball back in Sacramento, the upcoming season should be even more interesting.
This is when the Kings can establish themselves as a force in the West for the next few years. The process is, of course, already in the works, but a lot of the season’s storylines begin in training camp, which opens on Tuesday, October 3.
So, here are three things Kings fans should be watching during training camp.
#3: How do the new additions fit in?
In the 2022-23 season, the Kings played with great chemistry on the offensive end and it was the key to their success. Thus, it is crucial that the team’s offseason additions are introduced to Kings basketball as soon as possible so they can start the season with a smooth scoring machine well intact.
At the top of the list here are Sasha Vezenkov, JaVale McGee, and Chris Duarte. Much has been said and written about Vezenkov’s expected impact already, and training camp can offer a first glimpse of how he will fit in with the Kings’ main rotation from last season.
Duarte, on the other hand, might not play as big of a role, since the Kings’ rotation is already pretty set but he is an important depth piece. Last season, Terence Davis averaged 13.1 minutes per game and had some big outings when other players, like Kevin Huerter for example, were injured. The former Pacer will most likely take over that role and provide important wing depth.
Sacramento needs a strong bench, especially in the frontcourt, to withstand any possible injuries and to beat some of the deeper contenders in the league. So, everyone will have to be ready to step up when their number is called.
For the new additions to the team that means knowing the system and their role in it well, which all starts in training camp.